By Veronica Uy
Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts has reiterated The Netherlands’ support for the Philippines in facing challenges such as the West Philippine Sea dispute and climate change.
In her speech during the celebration of The Netherlands’ King’s Day, Ambassador Geraedts said, “Our constitution dictates that our government pro-actively promote international law. So we vow to continuously uphold international legal order and rule of law, especially in the West Philippine Sea, in Ukraine, and other regions of the world. Might does not make right, international law does.”
At the same time, Ambassador Geraedts expressed her country’s unwavering commitment to its partnership with the Philippines in the face of borderless challenges such as climate crisis and human trafficking.
“We have upheld in our fight against the sea by sophisticated engineering, and we are happy to share that experience with the Philippines that also strongly faces the consequences of climate change,” she said.
As over half of The Netherlands is below sea level, it has built protective dikes along its coastline and many rivers as an adaptation against consistent threats of flooding.
“Together, our countries have been partners in advancing the fight against human trafficking and in protecting children’s rights. We uphold our duties and remain a committed partner to the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center,” she added.
Ambassador Geraedts highlighted the enduring 73-year friendship between the two nations, rooted in mutual respect and shared values of democracy, freedoms, and respect for international law.
“In our foreign policy, we vow to uphold human rights, for everybody, everywhere. Together with journalists and media workers, we up #holdtheline and make sure that access to information, the freedom of speech, and facts make our democracies work,” Ambassador Geraedts;
“We stand with all the powerful women’s movements and the LGBTQIA+ activists in all their sparkling diversity, as they continue to assert their rights and challenge norms to make this world a kinder, equal place,” she said.
Speaking before officials of the Philippine government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society partners, and representatives from Dutch and Filipino communities, Ambassador Geraedts emphasized the historical ties between the two nations.
“For over 500 years, we have been a shipping nation and we continue to be. Something that would not be possible without the contribution of the Filipino seafarers. Their dedication is vital in keeping not only the Dutch, but the global trade, flowing,” she said.
“The Netherlands has consistently been among the largest foreign investors in the Philippines. Some 150 Dutch companies are based here. The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines is very active,” she added.